The GT Mall on Magadi Road issued an apology on Wednesday to Fakirappa (62), an elderly farmer, who was initially refused entry for wearing a traditional pancha (dhoti). Following intense public outcry and protests over this incident, the mall's management decided to make amends by giving Fakirappa a shawl.
The controversy began when Fakirappa, accompanied by his family from Haveri, visited GT Mall on Tuesday to watch the movie “Kalki 2898 AD.” Security staff denied him entry, deeming his attire inappropriate, leaving Fakirappa waiting outside for over 30 minutes.
The incident received condemnation from various groups, including pro-Kannada activists and political figures. Revenue department minister Krishna Byre Gowda criticized the mall’s actions, comparing them to a colonial mindset and stressing the need to respect individuals regardless of their appearance.
Fakirappa expressed how deeply offended and shocked he was to be refused entry due to his traditional attire. "I was deeply hurt by the incident. I have worn a dhoti all my life, and it has never been a problem before," he told reporters.
Following the public outcry and activist pressure, GT Mall’s management issued a formal apology to Fakirappa. Mall in-charge B Suresh personally apologized to him and assured that such incidents would not happen again.
"The security personnel made a grave mistake by denying entry based solely on clothing. We have instructed all staff to treat everyone equally, without discrimination based on attire, color, or identity," Suresh stated.
In a gesture of reconciliation, Fakirappa was invited back to the mall on Wednesday, where he was honored with a shawl.
Bengaluru GT Mall apologises to farmer for denying entry in traditional dhoti; Watch Video
Bengaluru's GT Mall issues apology and honors farmer denied entry due to attire with a shawl gesture.
Also Read - Punjab Police apprehends Babbar Khalsa International-linked terror suspect, seizes weapons